There was speculation this week that a vacant shop, that has become an eyesore in the heart of Helston's shopping centre, could finally be occupied by a new business.

Part of the former Dingles department store, in Meneage Street, last occupied by the Cornish Bookshop, has been empty for more than two years.

Prominently situated at the bottom of Horse and Jockey Lane, the premises has presented an increasingly unattractive sight for visitors coming into the town from the busy Trengrouse Way car park.

Now the British Heart Foundation is seeking planning permission for a new shop front and signs at the property, prompting speculation another charity shop could be opening its doors in Helston.

The British Heart Foundation previously ran a branch at another premises in Meneage Street, which closed several years ago.

A spokeswoman for the charity said: "There is something in the pipeline but it is not confirmed as yet," she said. "We are going through the procedures at the moment."

A spokesman for Truro-based Vickery Holman, the letting agents for the property, said the premises was under offer, but there were still issues to resolve before a deal was signed.

The same vacant property was being considered by Kerrier district council as a suitable location for a new "one stop shop" it was planning to establish in Helston after leaving its base at The Willows.

Council officials looking into the merits of the proposed move said leaving The Willows would save taxpayers money and provide residents in the south of the district with an improved range of council services.

In recent months, the issue has been the subject of renewed consultation and the resulting recommendations were discussed by members of the Kerrier finance and staffing scrutiny committee earlier this month.

The full council is due to make a decision on the future of council services in Helston early next month.